Question of the Day

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JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - Gov. Jay Nixon on Friday referred five measures to the August primary ballot while leaving three proposed constitutional amendments for the November election.

Voters consider constitutional amendments endorsed by the Legislature in November unless the governor sets a different date. Nixon’s office says it put several measures on the August ballot because of the large number of issues referred to this year’s ballot.

Here are the issues voters will see on ballots this year:

Aug 5:

TRANSPORTATION SALES TAX: Proposes a three-quarters cent sales tax increase for roads and other transportation projects that is projected to raise $534 million annually for a decade. It would be the largest tax increase in state history and would help a transportation system facing declining funds.

GUNS: Defines the right to bear arms as “unalienable” and would require the state to defend against any “infringement.” It would include the keeping of ammunition and defending one’s family with a firearm as constitutional rights. The Missouri Constitution already protects the right to bear arms in defense of one’s home, property and person. Supporters contend the proposal would force courts to use a higher standard of review when considering constitutionality of gun controls.

FARMING: Establishes the right to farm within the Missouri Constitution.

VETERANS LOTTERY TICKETS: Directs the Lottery Commission to develop a new lottery ticket to benefit state veterans homes.

EARLY VOTING: Permits early voting for six business days ending the Wednesday before an election. In-person ballots would be cast during the regular business hours of local election officials, who would be barred from activities or incurring expenses for early voting unless funding is included in the state budget.